JKAACL organises Seminar on Pandit Mohan Nirash
Jammu, April 9, 2025 — A literary seminar titled “Remembering Mohan Nirash” was organized today at the Writers’ Club, K. L. Saigal Hall, under the aegis of the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, to commemorate the 91st birth anniversary of the eminent Hindi and Kashmiri poet, writer, and broadcaster Late Pandit Mohan Nirash.
The event brought together renowned poets, scholars, writers, and admirers of literature, who gathered to reflect on the life, work, and legacy of Pandit Nirash — a figure celebrated for his deep poetic insight and contribution to Indian literature and cultural broadcasting.
The seminar was presided over by Dr. P. N. Trisal, a senior academician and thinker from Jammu, who in his presidential address, spoke about the timeless relevance of Mohan Nirash’s writings. Dr. Trisal highlighted how Nirash’s poetry transcended linguistic boundaries and expressed a profound engagement with the philosophical and socio-cultural themes of his time.
The program began with a welcome address by Dr. Javed Rahi, Divisional Head JKAACL, Jammu on behalf of Secretary JKAACL Harvinder Kour. He paid tribute to the literary and cultural contributions of the late poet and acknowledged the significance of organizing such commemorations to keep the legacy alive for future generations.
In the first session titled “Mohan Nirash: Diverse Dimensions”, renowned poet and broadcaster Shri Brij Nath Betab spoke about the multi-layered literary persona of Nirash. He discussed the poet’s journey through various genres and media, shedding light on his creative versatility and his role as a bridge between traditional literary forms and modern sensibilities.
This was followed by an emotionally charged session, “Remembering Mohan Nirash”, delivered by senior writer and cultural commentator Shri Avtar Mota, who shared personal anecdotes and reflections on Nirash’s life. Mota described him as a poet of sensitivity and silence — one who turned personal and collective pain into poignant poetry.
In a powerful and reflective talk titled “The Meaning of Being Nirash”, distinguished poet Dr. Agnishakher interpreted Nirash’s name not just as a literal reference to despair but as a symbol of poetic resistance and existential awareness. He emphasized the philosophical depth in Nirash’s work and how it continues to speak to readers in contemporary times.
Adding a lyrical dimension to the event, renowned singer Mrs. Naina Sapru and her ensemble paid a musical tribute by performing select songs written by Mohan Nirash. Their soulful renditions captivated the audience and brought the poet’s verses to life through melody. She was joined by promising young singers Shivani Jyotshi and Sharad Pandita Khah, whose heartfelt performances added freshness and energy to the evening. The performance was composed by Dr. Ramesh Nirash. Mr. Joginder accompanied on the tabla, creating rhythmic elegance, while Chandan Kumar on the synthesizer and Rajat Kumar on the pads.
The entire program was conducted and concluded by Dr. Upendra Nath Raina, a noted poet, media professional, and literary figure from Delhi. Dr. Chanchal Sharma, Editor (Hindi), JKAACL,in her vote of thanks, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all dignitaries, speakers, performers, and attendees for their presence and contributions in making the event a meaningful and memorable tribute to the life and legacy of Pandit Mohan Nirash.
